Landing a job interview is a clear sign that your CV has already impressed the employer—but now it’s time for the real test. Interviews aren’t just about credentials; they’re about who you are as a person and how you’ll fit into the team. Your personality can make all the difference, setting you apart from candidates with similar qualifications.
The way you present yourself, engage with the interviewer, and communicate can significantly influence their decision. If you’re wondering how to let your personality shine, here are four practical ways to ace your job interview and leave a lasting impression.
1. Be confident
Confidence is key to a successful job interview, and it starts with your body language. How you carry yourself can communicate enthusiasm, capability, and a positive attitude—all traits employers value. Even if you’re feeling nervous (which is completely normal), projecting confidence can help you control those nerves and perform at your best.
Start by taking a few deep breaths before entering the interview room to calm your mind and reduce anxiety. Greet the interviewer with a warm smile and a firm handshake to make a strong first impression. When seated, sit upright—slouching can signal disinterest, while leaning too far back might come across as overconfident.
Maintain eye contact when answering questions, but remember to shift your gaze between multiple interviewers if you’re speaking to a panel. This demonstrates that you respect everyone in the room and are fully engaged.
If you struggle with confidence, remember that small, deliberate actions can make a big difference. For example:
- Smile: Smiling naturally puts you at ease and helps build rapport.
- Pause when needed: Taking a moment to think before answering shows composure.
- Practice beforehand: Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable with typical questions.
By appearing confident—even if you’re nervous—you not only help the interviewer see your potential but also give yourself the boost you need to tackle the conversation head-on.
2. Show respect to everyone
Respect is a key element of professionalism, and it extends beyond the interview room. From the moment you step into the building, treat everyone you encounter with courtesy and kindness. You never know who might be asked to provide feedback about you, and their impressions could influence the hiring decision.
For instance, the person who greets you at reception or a team member you meet on your way to the interview room could play a role in assessing your fit for the team. A positive interaction with them might be shared with the hiring manager, giving you an added advantage.
Here are some ways to show respect throughout the interview process:
- Arrive on time: Being punctual not only shows respect for the interviewer’s schedule but also demonstrates reliability. Plan your route in advance to avoid delays.
- Dress appropriately: Choose attire that matches the company’s culture and shows you’ve made an effort to look professional.
- Be polite to everyone: Whether you’re speaking to the receptionist, a colleague, or the hiring manager, treat everyone with the same level of respect and courtesy.
- Acknowledge the team’s time: If you’re introduced to team members or shown around, express gratitude for their time and insights.
Simple gestures like greeting people with a smile, saying “thank you,” and maintaining a friendly, approachable demeanour can leave a lasting positive impression. Remember, the interview isn’t just about your qualifications; it’s also about how well you’ll fit into the company’s culture. Respect and kindness go a long way in showcasing your professionalism and likeability.
3. Tell a tale
Bringing a personal, lighthearted story into an interview is a great way to showcase your personality and help create a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. When discussing a previous role, consider sharing an anecdote that highlights your character, teamwork, or problem-solving abilities. A well-chosen story can make you memorable while adding a human touch to your professional experience.
To ensure your story lands well:
- Keep it appropriate: Avoid anything overly personal, controversial, or irrelevant. Choose a story that’s professional, workplace-related, and aligns with the company’s culture.
- Plan ahead: Think about anecdotes that reflect your personality or how you handled a specific situation. For example, you might share a moment when humour helped you diffuse a tense situation or build rapport with colleagues.
- Practice telling it: Test your story with a friend or family member to gauge their reaction. This will help you refine your delivery and confirm that it’s both appropriate and engaging.
For example, you could share something like:
“In my last role, we faced a tight deadline on a client project, and tensions were running high. I suggested we take a short brainstorming break, where everyone shared their ideas without judgment, no matter how unconventional. Not only did this lighten the mood, but it also sparked a creative solution we hadn’t considered. It taught me that fostering a positive, collaborative environment can turn a stressful situation into a productive one.”
Why this works:
- It’s engaging, relevant, and shows you thrive under pressure.
- It directly ties personality traits (positivity, collaboration) to a workplace success.
- It demonstrates how your actions had a tangible, positive impact.
A well-told story can showcase your ability to connect with others, your sense of humour, and your communication skills—all qualities employers value. By keeping it relevant and practising your delivery, you’ll be able to weave your personality into the conversation in a way that feels natural and professional.
4. Thank them for the opportunity
The end of an interview is your final opportunity to leave a positive and lasting impression, so make sure you finish strong. This is the moment to express your gratitude, reinforce your enthusiasm for the role, and set yourself apart as a thoughtful and engaged candidate.
Start by thanking the interviewer(s) for their time and the opportunity to discuss the position. A simple and genuine statement like, “Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today—I’ve really enjoyed learning more about the role and the company,” can go a long way.
Next, use this moment to demonstrate your interest by asking a couple of thoughtful questions. For example:
- “What are the biggest challenges the team is currently facing?”
- “How do you see this role contributing to the company’s long-term goals?”
These questions show that you’re genuinely invested in understanding the role and the organisation.
Finally, reinforce your enthusiasm. A closing statement such as, “I’m very excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and am confident I can bring value to this role,” reiterates your passion and leaves a confident impression.
Follow up after the interview
Don’t forget to send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview. In your email:
- Reiterate your appreciation for their time.
- Highlight a specific aspect of the conversation you enjoyed or found insightful.
- Reaffirm your enthusiasm for the role.
For example:
“Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the [Job Title] position. I really enjoyed discussing how [specific topic from the interview] aligns with my experience. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and look forward to the next steps.”
A strong closing during the interview, paired with a well-crafted thank-you note, helps you stand out as a thoughtful, professional, and enthusiastic candidate.
